Our smiles are subjected to a lot of wear and tear over time, and, as a result, they can start to accumulate damage. This is true for restorations as well as natural teeth. That is why our Saint Louis dentists have put together this primer on aging dental crowns—is it time for you to upgrade your dental restorations?
Dental Pain
If you develop sensitivity or pain around your restored tooth, this could be a sign that your restorative work is failing. A dental crown or filling should shield your sensitive tooth layers from irritants and bacteria. If you are feeling discomfort that means that the very sensitive dental nerves in the core of your tooth are vulnerable.
Bite Issues
While the restorations that we use today are remarkably durable, they are by no means indestructible. It is natural that your restoration will wear down over time—this is especially true for those patients who suffer from bruxism, or dental grinding. As your restoration changes, you may find it becomes more difficult or complicated to bring your top and bottom teeth together evenly.
Spots & Discoloration
In some cases it is possible to actually see signs of restoration failure. Old amalgam fillings, for example, tend to leech gray, metallic color into surrounding dental structure. If a porcelain restoration or composite filling is damaged, you may see dental debris and plaque buildup around the edges where your tooth and restoration meet.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Saint Louis dentists to learn more about upgrading and refreshing your restorations. You can give our office a call, or use the Contact Us page to get started!